Seat belt violation results in drug arrest

Published May 17, 2013 at 2:38 pm

Kevin Brian Sadlo, 52, Browerville, and Tina Ann Retz, 26, Callaway, were both charged with one felony count each of third degree possession of a controlled substance, fifth degree possession of a controlled substance and removing or altering a serial number from a firearm by Morrison County Attorney Brian Middendorf and his staff.

On May 7, a Minnesota State Trooper observed a truck approaching him on Riverwood Drive in Morrison County. He noticed the front seat passenger was not wearing a seat belt.

The trooper stopped the vehicle and identified the driver as Sadlo and the passenger as Retz.

Because the trooper allegedly noticed furtive gestures before stopping the vehicle, he separated the two. According to the criminal complaint, they each gave different stories about where they were going and how they knew each other. According to the criminal complaint, they didn’t know the other’s name.

Due to the earlier movements and their conflicting stories, the trooper searched Retz’ purse and found a straw containing a white residue. It tested positive for methamphetamine.

During a search of the truck, the trooper found a Jennings .22 pistol with the serial number grounded away and loose bullets. He also found an electronic scale, a straw which tested positive for methamphetamine, six small baggies with one containing a white crystal powder which field-tested positive for methamphetamine.

In a military-style jacket, the trooper found a magnifying glass, a pipe with burnt residue and an electronic scale with white powder on it. The powder also tested positive for methamphetamine.

Sadlo and Retz were both placed under arrest for controlled substance and firearm violations. The two were transported to the Morrison County Jail where Retz allegedly agreed to give a statement. According to the criminal complaint, she said she handled the gun and the plastic baggies.

Sadlo declined to give a statement.

If convicted, both Sadlo and Retz face a maximum penalty of 20 years imprisonment and/or a $250,000 fine.